Ohio Republicans Threaten to Strip State Courts of Authority to Review Abortion Measure
Ohio Republicans are in a heated battle to diminish state courts’ power to review cases related to Issue 1, the ballot measure that was recently approved by voters, establishing a right to abortion in the state constitution.
In a press release on Thursday, a group of four state GOP lawmakers announced their plans and hinted at upcoming legislative action in response to the approval of the reproductive rights initiative.
State Rep. Bill Dean expressed concerns about the ambiguous language of Issue 1, stating that it can potentially be used to attack parental rights or to defend criminals. As a result, the Ohio Republicans are considering removing jurisdiction from the judiciary over this ambiguous ballot initiative.
Ohio voters passed Issue 1 by a significant margin, marking the first time a Republican-led state has affirmatively guaranteed the right to abortion in its state constitution. The amendment, titled “The Right to Reproductive Freedom with Protections for Health and Safety,” guarantees that every individual has the right to make their own decisions on abortion, contraception, fertility treatment, miscarriage, and continuing their pregnancy.
Abortion-rights supporters are aiming to counter strict abortion laws and protect abortion access following the Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v. Wade roughly 17 months ago. In addition to Ohio, abortion-rights groups are working to secure proposals guaranteeing reproductive rights on the ballot in Florida, Arizona, and Nevada in 2024.
Overall, the battle over reproductive rights remains intense, with both sides fiercely advocating for their positions as they navigate the complex legal and political landscape.
